Moisture Analyzers Buyer's Guide

5 questions to ask when buying a moisture analyzer

How important is the moisture content to the product or material being analyzed? The more important water or moisture content is to a product or material, the more accurate the moisture analyzer should be.

What type of material will be measured? Many moisture analyzers are designed to measure the moisture content of a specific material, such as wood, soil, or food products.

How sensitive are the samples? Different products use different moisture measurement principles. If the samples or materials cannot be damaged, you should choose a moisture analyzer that uses a non-destructive measurement method, such as capacitive- or microwave-based moisture determination. Otherwise, you can use a moisture analyzer that employs conductivity-, resistance, kiln-, gravimetric-, or loss-on-drying-based measurement principles.

What is your typical sample size? Depending on the size of the samples, you may want a larger analyzer. For most testing purposes, 3-5g is a good sample size. But the maximum capacity for a moisture analyzer can vary greatly.

What additional features and benefits does this specific moisture analyzer offer?

Maintenance Tip

To ensure your moisture analyzer performs at its best, both weight and temperature need to be routinely maintained and calibrated. Incorrect moisture readings can occur if the heating temperature is too low, because not all of the moisture will be able to evaporate. On the other hand, if the heating temperature is too high, a sample could melt, oxidize, burn, or combust. Other properties of the measured substance may change state, leaving trapped moisture inside the sample without giving it a chance to evaporate.

Safety Tip

To ensure the most accurate results possible, take the time to pick a proper location for your analyzer. The ideal location has good air circulation but is away from drafts. Also avoid any areas that receive direct sunlight or experience extreme temperature fluctuation. Be sure to use the correct type of power source recommended in your product’s owner’s manual, and unplug the device after use.